“Saw Dodge Blues” is a beginning rote piece that includes a melodic part 1 ostinato on the first string, rasgeado chords E, A7, & B7in part 2 and a low bass part for the thumb in guitar 3. Begin by teaching all students the swung ostinato part in guitar 1 with I finger. Elementary students use 2nd finger on 3rd fret. Level 1 students use 4th finger on third fret G. Model speaking the fret numbers and call on individuals to perform this short ostinato. After everyone is confident, perform with all students while the teacher plays the accompaniment chords in part 2 (or full 1st position chords). Next, teach everyone the chords paying close attention to the quick changes in measures 9-‐12. To ease chord transitions, have students pulse the chords in the left hand alone while the teacher plays them. They can squeeze and let go for each half note, concentrating on smooth transitions. Guitar 3 will get set up with index on string 3. All bass notes are played with thumb. For guitar 2 and 3, consider calling out chord names so they know when to switch. The turnaround at the end of the piece in guitar 1 is optional. It is on string 1 then moves down to string 2 frets 3-‐2-‐1-‐0 using P in the right hand for string 2. Repeat this piece switching parts at the repeats.
Playing Together.
Playing Beautifully.